The fact is, few people go out to hear just a keyboard player (except in a background role - although, of course, there are exceptions). It is still primarily about entertaining, singing, making a connection with the audience. If modern arranger tools help the less talented keyboard players utilize their God-given vocal talents and entertaining skills to make a living, more strength to it!

But as long as the dedicated keyboard player keeps up-to-date with styles and songs that people in clubs, bars and restaurant actually want to hear, rather than trotting out 'golden oldies' because that's all they are willing to play, they should keep making a living, too.

You only have to listen to the top arranger demonstrators to realize that there is PLENTY left to do on an arranger after you get through 'Intro 1' and before you hit 'Ending 1'. THIS is where the dedicated player will score over the singer just holding down the chords....

Modern arrangers are 'too easy' only if you are lazy... With work you can make the TOTL arrangers sound pretty much any way you want. I, for one, do NOT feel they all sound the same, at least, not after I'm finished voicing it!